Princess Diana was known as the “People’s Princess.” She was a combination of relatable and aspirational in the way she cared about others and the way she dressed.
I’ll never forget seeing a picture of her for the first time amongst my mother’s mementos in my grandparent’s house. I was about eight years old, and I was caught off guard by a glossy photo of this stunning woman with blond hair and a resplendent diadem sitting on her head. Her smile seemed to jump off the page, and her eyes were kind and striking at the same time. As someone fascinated by royalty at birth (back then it was obviously Disney princesses), I asked my grandma who she was. “That’s Princess Diana,” she said with a smile. “She is one of the most beautiful women in the world with a beautiful heart to match.”
My mother and grandmother would go on to tell me about what a humanitarian Diana was: She worked toward destigmatizing HIV and AIDs, leprosy, devoted her time to those experiencing homelessness, and so much more. Actually, Princess Diana was involved with over 100 charitable organizations at one point in time, according to Time Magazine. Those who know about my affinity with Audrey Hepburn may see a trend here: a style icon in my eyes is someone who knows that a well-dressed woman’s best accessories are a big heart and shimmering soul.
Speaking of outfits, Princess Diana’s have stood the test of time. Watching The Crown season four revived my obsession with her fashion choices. My wardrobe is already dripping with ‘80s and ‘90s attire, thanks to my mother’s closet that I’ve ‘shopped’ from time to time. So naturally, I’ve been able to seamlessly recreate a good dozen of Lady Di’s looks without spending a dime. That’s why this will be the first of a series of Diana outfits that I’ll be dawning on the blog!
This “princess off-duty” look is one I ironically have worn on my days off countless times without knowing Diana wore it first! The fact that she dawned it on the beach decades ago, makes me love it and want to live in it that much more. It’s the epitome of ‘90s minimalism that allows the wearer to exude effortless radiance, rather than the outfit overshadowing her. It’s simple, sporty and classy, just like Princess Diana. The look consists of a black spaghetti black tank top and crisp white Bermuda shorts cinched with a black leather belt with a square buckle. I accessorized with vintage gold hoop earrings, a dainty watch courtesy of my grandma, and some square sunnies that were my mom’s and are now back in style! On a sunny day traipsing the lush gardens and art halls of The Huntington with my blogger bestie Mari Makatsaria, the outfit served me well in the comfort department too.
Who is your style icon, and why? Let me know in the comments below!
PC: Mari Makatsaria
Keeping it Krischic,
Kristin Vartan
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Keeping it Krischic 